BUFFALO, N.Y., April 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Kinex Pharmaceuticals announced that Dr. David Hangauer, co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Kinex, has been named the American Cancer Society's 2013 Honoree of the year for its Cuisine for a Cure event.

"I am honored to be the 2013 honoree for the American Cancer Society Cuisine for a Cure event. I have devoted much of my career to discovering better drugs for treating cancer, two of which have recently advanced to clinical trials. Through these efforts I am constantly humbled by the courage and strength of the cancer patients. To be able to work on such an important medical need is a privilege," said Dr. David Hangauer.

"Kinex was initially founded upon a scientific platform to develop better drugs for treating cancer. This is not solely a professional endeavor for us. Importantly, our company is driven by a deep personal commitment as we have all been touched by both the devastation of cancer and the hope and extended life that new compounds can bring when fighting the disease. Dave is the foundation of our efforts in Kinex. Progress in treatment regimens will continue as extremely productive and engaged scientists like Dr. David Hangauer lead the charge in the fight against cancer," quoted Dr. Allen Barnett, President Emeritus of Kinex.

Dr. Johnson Lau, CEO of Kinex, commented, "Both patients and Kinex are fortunate to have Dr. Hangauer dedicated to the field of cancer. His expertise in drug discovery, coupled with tireless effort and commitment, has generated two very promising novel compounds for the treatment of various tumor types that Kinex and our drug development partners, Hanmi Pharmaceuticals, Xiangxue Pharmaceuticals, and PharmaEssentia are actively pursuing. His focus on improving patient's lives through the discovery and development of new and better drugs is well reflected by the recognition of his achievements at the American Cancer Society 2013 event. Kinex is proud to have Dave as our cofounder and Chief Scientific Officer."